Mary Hopkin's 1969 debut album Post Card comprises a diverse collection of jazz standards, show tunes, tradpop ballads, and everything in between. The young singer's voice shines like a bright and gentle ray of sun, giving new life to old classics and holding its own against backing orchestras and ensembles; rather impressive confidence for an 18-year-old thrust into the world of professional recordings. She also excels on engaging excursions into French chanson ("Prince en ... read more
1972's Some Time in New York City holds a very unique place in John Lennon and Yoko Ono's discography. Far more deeply collaborative than Lennon's first two solo records, it was his only double album, the first LP consisting of studio work and the second being live recordings. The couple's first project after moving to NYC, it was one of their most overtly political works, with lyrical content touching on women's empowerment, Irish republicanism, and the US prison ... read more
After the monumental success of their debut, Weezer stood poised to take command of popular rock in the mid 90s. Instead, their next project underwent a tumultuous development cycle amidst tours, an abandoned attempt at a rock opera, and frontman Rivers Cuomo enrolling at Harvard after a major surgery. The result is a blend of songs, newer and older, with a markedly less commercial approach than the Blue Album. Cuomo and Brian Bell lay down dirty, crunchy guitar tones, backed by the robust and ... read more
After the experimental heel turn of their previous record Angles, 2013's Comedown Machine sees the Strokes refining their new sound with moderate success. Filled with glossy guitar parts and sleek production, it's a project that exudes an urban, nocturnal vibe perhaps best exemplified by the groove of its opener "Tap Out." The lead single "All the Time" is an almost U2ish pop tune thats serviceable, and features a nice guitar solo. The record's misses ... read more
Nothing to say that hasn't already been said; just a jaw-dropping masterpiece of an album. Dylan asserts his new electric style with the swaggering sound of bluesy folk rock, while also deepening his craft as a songwriter and an artist. Dylan's poetry takes on a power beyond that of mere lyrics, weaving together stories of vagabonds, bohemians, and historic figures; of working-class toil, hopeful youth, and jaded weariness; through biblical imagery, contemporary wit, and bold ... read more